Newark Mayor Cory Booker rallies Democrats in Tenafly

TENAFLY — Newark Mayor Cory Booker returned to the county where he grew up Tuesday night to rally support for two Democratic candidates in the Tenafly council race.

Stumping for Joseph McDermott, an incumbent, and newcomer Mark Zinna at a fund-raiser at McDermott’s house, Booker said the two candidates were not running for council seats for money or fame.

“They’re doing it for the love of service, the love of community,” he said during his speech. “It is the humble day-to-day work that keeps towns strong, keeps our democracy moving forward and keeps communities’ sacred spaces for children to grow up and achieve their dreams.”

Having grown up in Harrington Park, he said he wanted to return to the area to support people and organizations.

McDermott and Zinna are vying for the two seats against GOP candidates Barry Honig and Martha Kerge.

Booker agreed to speak after Zinna had approached the mayor’s team through a friend and asked if he would make an appearance.

The mayor was asked questions by some of the 60 guests who had each paid $50. Among the questions were what would be done with a $100 million grant to the city schools from Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who had made the announcement recently on the “Oprah Winfrey Show.”

“We’re trying to take this money … and use it not to pour into the system. We’re looking to change the system completely,” Booker replied.

When asked how he has bridged the gap to work with Governor Christie, a Republican, he said the two have different styles but have worked together on issues like public safety, education and economic development.

McDermott said he was honored by Booker’s appearance.

“Despite the differences between our small little town and Newark, we share many common concerns,” McDermott said. “We’re starstruck by the changes he’s already made in Newark in terms of crime and drugs in particular.”

Kerge, a Republican council candidate, said of Booker’s visit: “I still think we’re going to be the choice of the people when it comes to the election, but it’s a nice thing when anybody of stature visits our town.”

She and Honig said the Republicans are planning a gala to be held later this month.

While he said he has a “high personal regard” for Booker, Honig said he wasn’t sure of the relevance of the mayor’s appearance in Tenafly other than for fund-raising.